Officers from West Midlands Police are working with colleagues in the Czech Republic to trace the boy’s mother, who was believed to have returned to her home country last September.

Residents in Brighton Road spoke of their shock at the tragic news.

"It's hard to believe," said a Mr Hussain.

"We've had trouble before with young lads messing around, but nothing like this.

"It's a big shock."

Another neighbour, who has lived in the road for nine years, added: "On New Year's Day there were police outside the house. "Later I saw a man in a forensic suit coming out carrying an evidence bag."I am devastated."

Another neighbour added: "I used to see them walk up and down the street on a daily basis, but I didn't know them."It is such a shock."